Drotaverine

Information About Drotaverine

Uses of Drotaverine

Drotaverine is commonly used to treat abdominal pain and menstrual pain.

How Drotaverine Works

Drotaverine is a Phosphodiesterase inhibitor. It works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase-IV, a specific enzyme for smooth muscle. It directly acts on smooth muscles by correcting cyclic AMP and Ca imbalance at the spastic muscles in people with abdominal or menstrual pain.

Side Effects of Drotaverine

Vomiting, Nausea, Vertigo, Dry mouth

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Drotaverine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Alcohol can cause some similar side effects as Drotaverine such as headache, dizziness and lightheadedness. So, it is not advisable to consume alcohol with Drotaverine because both of them would double the side effects.

Pregnancy Limited Data

Drotaverine is initially unclassified in the FDA pregnancy categories, but a study stated that Drotaverine is being reclassified as probably safe to use in pregnancy after more than half women population still use drugs under the same classification as Drotaverine. However, you need to consult your doctor if Drotaverine is suitable for your specific condition.

Lactation Limited Data

No clinical data shows the safety of using Drotaverine in lactation and due to lack of data, Drotaverine is not recommended to use while breastfeeding to avoid any potential risk to the infants.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Drotaverine may cause side effects such as vertigo which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney High Risk

Use of Drotaverine is contraindicated in patients with kidney disease. Drotaverine could build up and cause Drotaverine overdose such as cardiac arrest and respiratory center paralysis. These could lead to mortality. Please consult your doctor before consume it

Liver Limited Data

Use of Drotaverine is contraindicated in patients with liver disease as well. Other than kidney, Drotaverine is excreted through bile . Drotaverine could build up and cause Drotaverine overdose such as cardiac arrest and respiratory center paralysis. These could lead to mortality. Please consult your doctor to get dose adjustment.